VIDEO: Public help get Dispossessed back on stage

An indigenous punk band who had their musical equipment stolen at a recent Sydney gig have raised enough money to replace their gear – and purchase more.

Dispossessed, who describe themselves as an “anti-colonial project” fighting for peoples who are dispossessed of their land and heritage, lost $7000 worth of gear after their October 15 performance at the Factory Theatre in Marrickville.

Guitarist Serwah Attafuah took to Facebook to ask fans to keep an eye out for anyone in the area with “black gear bags”. The band also started the fundraising campaign and raised almost $5000 in the first three hours.

They have now surpassed their target, raising more than $10,000.

“Really appreciate all the mob getting behind us and showing your love for us in a dark time,” Attafuah said on the GoFundMe page.

“Wanna say big thank you to the supporters and fam who donated to us mob … feel hopeful that we can keep on keeping on, darrendang.”

In their two years as a band, they have gained a massive following. But as much as they are loved, they are also hated. They have received violent threats on social media and the robbery sparked speculations of a targeted attack. Some of the stolen gear had childhood sentimental value.

The GoFundMe page urged people to support the band to “ensure that no one can silence them of their voices whilst they may try to dispossess everything else”. – Story and video by Bakri Mahmoud